October Harvest Moon to brighten UK skies in days - how and when to see the supermoon

A stunning Harvest Moon is set to be visible for millions of Brits in days, the first of three supermoons occuring over the remainder of the year. Harvest Moons are the name given to the nearest full moon to the September equinox.

This one will be a little bit special because it is also a supermoon, which isn't always the case. Supermoons occur when the moon is full and at its closest point to our planet during its orbit, as The BBC's Sky at Night Magazine explains.

Here's all you need to know about when and where you can see the striking astronomical phenomenon.

Harvest Moons occur every year, mostly in September. However, they occasionally happen in October, as is the case this year.

It gets its name from the time of the year when crops are gathered ahead of the winter months. The closeness of the moon to Earth makes the moon appear larger and brighter.

This combines with the "moon illusion," a visual trick that occurs when the moon is near the horizon, making it appear bigger.

According to BBC Weather, the full Harvest Moon will rise in the UK at around 6.20pm GMT on Tuesday, October 7.

When conditions are good, Harvest Moons are visible across the UK.

However, this year it may be complicated by rain and cloud in some areas, which could obscure your view.

According to BBC Weather there should be clear skies to take in the phenomenon across much of southern England and Wales due to high pressure to the south.

Unfortunately for stargazers in the north of Great Britain, there's more of a chance that rain and cloud will obscure it.

However, the website adds that some clear spells might develop in Scotland, particularly in the eastern part of the country. It's therefore best to check your local weather forecast nearer the time to establish whether you'll be able to get a good view.

According to Almanac.com is the Harvest Moon will appear full for three days, giving you plenty of time to see it.

The last supermoon before this one was observed on October 17 2024, the Royal Museums Greenwich says.

The upcoming supermoons this year, including the upcoming Harvest moon are:

• Harvest Moon - around 6.20pm on October 7
• Beaver Moon - Shortly before 4pm on November 5
• Cold Moon - at 4.48pm on December 4